Yunwu Mountain, just hearing its name evokes the charm of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz; observing its form, though not majestic, it still features undulating peaks and lush greenery.
“Let life be filled with rhythm, and let nature endow life.” — In this picturesque place, where gurgling streams blend together, the 5th China Mulanshan Mountain Climbing Festival was launched yesterday, with over 3,000 hiking enthusiasts from the three main districts of Wuhan enjoying the joyful activity of mountain climbing.
The purest oxygen bar, a source of health “The negative oxygen ion content here is tens of thousands of times higher than in the urban area — it’s definitely a huge oxygen bar.” Li Tiancai, an elderly man from the Wuhan Elderly Committee team, excitedly explained as he walked. “We retirees work out in Liberation Park every day, but coming here today to experience mountain climbing feels like absorbing energy from nature.”
From the Flower Goddess Square at Yunwu Mountain to Huahai Peak, the less-than-6-kilometer mountain path winds upward. Standing at a high point and looking down, the mountain climbers resemble a long dragon winding through the hills.
With autumn sunlight filtering through the tree shade, the temperature along the climbing path is more than 10°C lower than at the foot of the mountain. Liu Zhiyou, an elderly man from western Hunan, sighed, “The air here is so good. After living in big cities for so long, coming here to climb mountains does nothing but good.” “The elderly fear the least active lifestyle — being able to move shows you have strong vitality,” said Yu Ping’an, who was walking the mountain path with Mr. Liu, striding swiftly.
The Yunwu Mountain scenic area is located within Huangpi District, and it takes just 40 minutes to drive there from Zhuyeshan in Wuhan. “Having such beautiful scenery and high-quality air so close to the city is truly our blessing.” Ms. Zhang, 58, squatted by a stream, sending sprays of water into the air.
Absorbing energy, purifying the soul Yesterday’s climbing route was accompanied by the “Eight-Li Willow Stream.” With mountains and water in harmony, it allowed people to experience the charm of nature with the most relaxed mindset, absorb the treasures of nature, and then return to real life with a positive attitude.
Li Huixia, a sophomore from Wuhan Sports University, also came to climb. She explained, “This kind of hiking is very meaningful for students. First, it builds physical strength, but most importantly, it brings you closer to nature, relaxes your body and mind, and purifies your soul through nature.” Her companion added, “Climbing isn’t about seeking a sense of ‘conquest.’ What matters is experiencing it firsthand, broadening your horizons, improving your learning attitude, and inspiring positive energy in life.”
Along the way, a young man surnamed Zhao from Henan ran while shouting to two children ahead, “The wolf is coming, run!” This made the kids shriek and shout, “Run faster!” as they laughed and dashed forward.
Many climbers brought mooncakes up to Huahai Peak. Standing at a high vantage point, overlooking the lush surrounding mountains, breathing in the fresh air of nature, and enjoying delicious food, they were completely at ease.
The government funds it, the public enjoys it “This year, no less than 2,000 people will participate in each stop of the climbing festival,” introduced Yang Hua, secretary-general of the Municipal Outdoor Sports Association. “For this event, we also received help from other associations such as the Swimming Association and Shuttlecock Association, who specially chartered buses to bring people from downtown Wuhan. It’s fair to say the government pays, and the public benefits.”
According to reports, Huangpi District has been continuously working with the Wuhan Social Sports Activity Center to discuss and improve the “Climbing Festival” brand. “The first National Mountain Outdoor Challenge to be held this year includes competitive events such as cross-country running, mountain climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, and rope rappelling,” said Yao Qin’an, director of the Municipal Social Sports Center. “This is a national Class B competition, and in the future, we plan to host international Class A competitions as well.”
Yesterday at the “CS” live-action combat site, 23 combat teams competed. “Trendy, healthy, team-spirited, and fun new activities will continue to be added, enriching the climbing festival’s offerings and expanding its participant base.”
Yang Hua stated, “As the quality of life of our people improves, outdoor sports will surely gain favor with more and more people. Fully leveraging the leading role of the government and utilizing the power of associations to enhance the quality of life for the public is our unshirkable responsibility.”